Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB148

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/7/23
• Refer: 4/7/23
• Report Pass: 4/19/23
• Refer: 4/19/23
• Engrossed: 4/25/23
• Refer: 5/2/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Disenrollment of ineligible individuals from and redeterminations of eligibility for the BadgerCare Plus program and database confirmation for public assistance program eligibility. (FE)

Impact

This bill is set to reform the eligibility verification process for public assistance in Wisconsin. By implementing strict requirements for timely reporting of changes in circumstance and permitting the DHS to utilize data sharing agreements with other state agencies, the bill aims to streamline eligibility determinations. However, this may also lead to increased administrative burdens on individuals, as any failure to report changes in a timely manner can result in a six-month ineligibility period. The bill's implementation will also hinge on maintaining compliance with federal laws to avoid losing enhanced federal funding that currently supports these programs.

Summary

Assembly Bill 148 introduces significant changes to the eligibility process for the BadgerCare Plus program, aiming to enhance oversight and ensure that only eligible individuals receive benefits. It mandates the Department of Health Services (DHS) to conduct eligibility assessments every six months, replacing the previous system of automatic renewals. Furthermore, the bill prohibits the use of prepopulated forms that could simplify the application process. This means that applicants will now need to provide their information from scratch, which proponents argue enhances accountability but critics believe could lead to confusion and loss of benefits for eligible individuals.

Contention

A key point of contention among legislators revolves around the potential consequences of these changes on vulnerable populations. While supporters argue that increased scrutiny of public assistance rolls is necessary to prevent fraud and ensure funds are directed to those in need, opponents raise concerns about the risk of disenrollment among eligible individuals due to bureaucratic complexities. Additionally, the bill's provisions for data sharing with financial entities may raise privacy concerns, as recipients’ personal information will be more accessible across agencies, heightening the scrutiny on how data is handled by state departments.